A Border Patrol helicopter was fired upon Friday while flying in a known high drug traffic area near the Rio Grande River in Laredo, Texas. Several shots, which came from the Mexican side of the border, struck the helicopter at about 5 p.m. local time. The rounds penetrated the aircraft, forcing the pilot to make an emergency landing.

“Thankfully no agents were hurt in this incident,” said Brandon Judd, NBPC president. “This is another reminder of the dangers of being an agent. As we work to secure the border, drug cartels and human smugglers are becoming more aggressive in their attempts to test our resolve and capacity.

“We thank our communities and our families for their support,” he added. “We ask that everyone keep our agents in their thoughts and prayers as we continue to prevent drugs, crime and individuals intending to do harm to our citizens from crossing our border.”